1986 Citroen BX vs. 2003 Saturn L

To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Citroen BX would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Citroen BX (197 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (180 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Citroen BX should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 40 kg more than 1986 Citroen BX.

Because 1986 Citroen BX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Saturn L. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Citroen BX will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Citroen BX (294 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saturn L. (257 Nm). This means 1986 Citroen BX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saturn L. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1986 Citroen BX has manual transmission. 1986 Citroen BX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Citroen BX 2003 Saturn L
Make Citroen Saturn
Model BX L
Year Released 1986 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2139 cc 2996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 197 HP 180 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 257 Nm
Engine Bore Size 91.4 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.6 mm 85 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1280 kg 1320 kg
Vehicle Length 4240 mm 4840 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 59 L